Dehradun: Almost three months ahead of the beginning of the Kedarnath Yatra, the administration has started its preparations to avoid problems for the devotees on the 16-km-long Kedarnath trek route that starts from Gaurikund and concludes at Kedarnath Dham. The administration is under a plan to install around 1200 tents on the trek route for the stay of devotees.
More than 850 refreshment centres will be also set up on the trek route. Food, tea, and hot water will be available at the refreshment centres for the devotees. Since Char Dham Yatra is a major source of income for the locals, the work of installing tents and opening refreshment centres on the trek route will be offered to youths. The administration may complete the tender process for installing tents and opening refreshment centres by the end of this month.
Increasing number of devotees at Kedarnath Dham every year
Following the development of infra-structure and beautification of the Kedarpuri, the number of devotees coming to offer prayer at Kedarnath temple is increasing every year. The past data clearly shows that the number of devotees coming to Kedarnath shrine exceed more than 25000 per day during the peak hour of the Yatra season.
Tents at different points on the trek route
To avoid problems for the night-stay of the devotees, the administration has planned to install tents at Jangalchatii, Bhimbali, Choti Lincholi, Badi Lincholi, and Rudra point. Devotees will be provided accommodations at a lower rate. This arrangement has remained successful in the past also. While devotees get facilities, it also ensures employment for the local youths during the Yatra season.
Availability of accommodations for devotees at kedarnath Dham
Besides this, Garhwal Mandal Vikash Nigam has its own arrangement to give accommodations to around 2000 devotees at Kedar Dham. The lodges and hotels, owned by Tirth Purohits also provide accommodations to devotees.
Increase in the number of registration counters for devotees
Meanwhile, the state government has also decided to increase the number of registration counters for the devotees. 20 registration counters in Haridwar, 20 registration counters in Rishikesh and 15 such counters in Vikas Nagar will be set up. Besides, registration facilities will be available for the devotees at Badkot, Heena, Srinagar and Guptakashi also.
